Journal of the Mathematics Council of the Alberta Teachers’ Association
Volume 39 Issue 2, June 2002
41 – 44
Using Communication to Develop Students’ Mathematical Literacy
David K. Pugalee
When students are given the opportunity to communicate about mathematics, they engage thinking skills and processes that are crucial in developing mathematical literacy. The importance of communication is evidenced through NCTM’s recognition of this skill as one of the five process standards in mathematics, in both the 1989 and 2000 Standards documents (NCTM 1989, 2000). Students who are supported in their “speaking, writing, reading and listening in mathematics classes reap dual benefits: they communicate to learn mathematics, and they learn to communicate mathematically” (NCTM 2000, 60). Communication, then, should be a fundamental component in implementing a balanced and effective mathematics program.
